SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) on Specimen
This test detects genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in a sample collected from you. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["This test may be used to diagnose COVID-19 or confirm exposure to the virus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94314-2
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RdRp Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RdRp Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
The test uses a specialized probe designed to target a specific segment of the virus’s genetic material (the RNA sequence of the RDRP gene). When the probe binds to the virus’s genetic material in your sample, it triggers a detectable signal during the RT-PCR process. This signal indicates the presence of viral genetic material, suggesting an active infection.
What Sample Is Used?
A nasal or throat swab is typically collected to gather cells and respiratory secretions that may contain the virus. This sample is then sent to the lab for testing.
When Is This Test Used?
This test is most commonly used to diagnose COVID-19 in individuals with symptoms of illness, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath. It may also be used for screening in high-risk settings, such as healthcare facilities or community gatherings, or to confirm exposure before certain activities.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means that viral genetic material was detected in your sample. This strongly suggests you are currently infected with SARS-CoV-2 and may be contagious. However, a positive result does not always confirm the exact timing of infection or the severity of your illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result is critical for managing your health and preventing the spread of COVID-19. It allows healthcare providers to recommend appropriate treatment, isolate you if necessary, and advise close contacts to get tested. A negative result means no viral genetic material was detected in your sample, but this does not always rule out infection if testing was done too early in the illness. Follow-up testing may be recommended if symptoms persist or worsen.
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What are the possible results and what do they mean?
How soon after exposure can I expect results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy